What happens when Earth itself starts to wake up? In this episode, Kroc School Prof. Topher McDougal joins us to talk about his new book Gaia Wakes, where he explores the idea of Earth’s emergent consciousness and the possibility of a global AI-powered governance system. From the collision of economics and ecology to the Butlerian Jihad of the Dune series, McDougal pushes us to rethink humanity’s role in an AI-dominated future.

In this wide-ranging episode, we dive into Luddites, the idea of a grand bargain between humans and AI, and what it really means to have — or be — a soul. In this episode we discuss:

• The four radical evolutionary upgrades (so far…)
• Humans as natural phenomena
• Why our future may demand a new relationship with technology
• The ethical risks of being domesticated by our own tools

Check out these links for more information after you listen:

Gaia Wakes The Book: https://cup.columbia.edu/book/gaia-wakes/9781788218283/

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For our Season 6 premiere episode we examine what it really looks like when business leaders put people and planet before profit. In this episode, we dive into the rise of socially responsible businesses in San Diego with Jeff Blanton and Abraham Chen. From conscious capitalism to B Corps and social innovation, they share how a new wave of companies is reshaping the way we think about success.

If you’ve ever wondered how business can become a true force for good, this conversation will give you inspiration—and practical insights—for the road ahead. In this episode we discuss:

• How profit works best when it serves a bigger purpose
• Why strong leadership drives every B Corp
• The rise of San Diego as a hub for social innovation
• Ways that consumers can shape companies

Check out these links for more information after you listen:

• BLocal San Diego: https://linktr.ee/blocalsandiego

  Jeff 's Podcast: https://jailbreakleadership.com/podcast/beyond-profit-how-b-corps-are-changing-capitalism-with-abraham-chen/

  Conscious Capitalism Chapter in SD: https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/chapter/san-diego

  Cause San Diego: https://www.causesandiego.org/

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What does it mean to hold space at the edge of life? In this episode, we sit down with two experienced death doulas to explore how they guide individuals and families through death, dying, and grief. We unpack the emotional, spiritual, and practical layers of end-of-life care—and what it means to show up with presence, compassion, and clarity.

Whether you're navigating personal loss, exploring a calling in death care, or simply curious about how we can face death more honestly—this conversation is a powerful entry point. In this episode we discuss:

• • Destigmatizing conversations about death

  • How grief is both personal and unpredictable

  • Why death education should be taught in schools

  • When “I’m sorry” is the wrong thing to say

  For more information about death doulas check out: Inelda

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